Applying to drive for Southeastern?
Southeastern operates commuter and regional services across London, Kent, and East Sussex. Its driver selection process includes the OPC psychometric test battery — the Vigilance Test (WAFV) and ATAVT being among the most critical components.
London, Kent & parts of East Sussex
The Southeastern OPC Assessment
Southeastern routes include some of the UK's most densely scheduled commuter services, running into London Bridge, Cannon Street, Charing Cross, and Victoria. Drivers need sharp situational awareness at all times. The ATAVT specifically measures the ability to extract information from a brief visual scene — exactly the skill needed at level crossings and station approaches.
The 30-minute Vigilance Test rewards patience and sustained focus. Many candidates find it deceptively hard — the first ten minutes feel manageable, but maintaining the same alertness level for the full half-hour requires practice. Doing several complete runs before your assessment day is the most effective preparation.
Southeastern holds its OPC assessments at dedicated assessment centres. The tests are computer-based and conducted under controlled conditions. Knowing the interface and timing in advance removes a significant source of test-day anxiety.
What you'll practice
Two practice tests included
Vigilance Test
A grey square sits in the centre of the screen. Watch it for 30 minutes and press Space the moment it turns black. Tests sustained attention — a core skill for train drivers.
- ✓30-minute full-length simulation
- ✓Random stimulus intervals
- ✓Scored on hits, misses & reaction time
ATAVT
A traffic scene flashes for 1 second. Identify which elements you saw — lights, vehicles, pedestrians, signs, bicycles, motorcycles. Tests perceptual speed and scene awareness.
- ✓20 scenes per session
- ✓Brief flash per scene
- ✓Per-element identification scoring
FAQ
Common questions
Does Southeastern offer trainee train driver roles?
Yes. Southeastern periodically recruits trainee train drivers (TTDs) with no prior driving experience. These roles include full training and the OPC assessment is a mandatory step in the selection process.
Which tests are included in the OPC battery?
The OPC (Occupational Personality and Cognitive) battery includes the Vigilance Test (WAFV), ATAVT, Group Bourdon, and several other assessments. The exact combination varies slightly by operator but all are governed by RSSB standard RIS-3751-TOM.
Is this the same as the real test?
Our tests match the format and parameters of the real OPC assessment — 30 minutes for the Vigilance test, brief flashes for the ATAVT. No practice site can replicate the exact proprietary software, but the format is calibrated to match.
What happens after I pay?
You get instant access to both tests with unlimited attempts. Access never expires.
Can I get a refund?
Because you receive immediate access to digital content, we don't offer refunds. Contact us if you have any issues.